President Prabowo Welcomes Japan’s Special Envoy Fumio Kishida, Discusses Geothermal Investment and AZEC Cooperation

President Prabowo Subianto received a visit from former Japanese Prime Minister and current Special Envoy Fumio Kishida at his residence in Kertanegara, Jakarta. The Japanese delegation arrived around 7:00 PM local time.

During the meeting, both parties reviewed the progress of cooperation under the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) framework. One of the key developments is Japan’s plan to invest US$ 500 million (around Rp 8.2 trillion) in an 80-megawatt geothermal project located in Muara Laboh, West Sumatra.

"Tomorrow, a financial closing will be signed for the 80 MW geothermal project in West Sumatra, with an investment of around US$ 500 million," said Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto in a statement on Monday (May 5, 2025).

Airlangga also noted that Indonesia and Japan currently have more than 170 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in place. President Prabowo expressed appreciation for the strong partnership between the two nations and emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation amid ongoing global uncertainty.

“The President appreciates the close Indonesia–Japan partnership and hopes it will continue to grow despite global trade tensions,” said Airlangga.

During the meeting, Kishida delivered a letter from Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to President Prabowo. The message emphasized Japan’s commitment to the AZEC initiative, aligning with Kishida’s role as a special envoy for the program.

“Kishida handed over a letter from PM Ishiba, highlighting matters related to AZEC projects,” Airlangga stated.

Kishida stressed the need to deepen bilateral ties during this uncertain global climate, underlining the importance of strong international collaboration.

After the formal talks, the agenda continued with a dinner gathering, held in a warm and cordial atmosphere — underscoring the friendly relations between the two countries.

Several high-ranking Indonesian officials were also present at the event, including Economic Affairs Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto, Foreign Minister Sugiono, State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, and Higher Education Minister Brian Yuliarto. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, Deputy Agriculture Minister Sudaryono, Deputy Minister of Communication Angga Raka Prabowo, and Pertamina CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri also attended.